Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Tacoma
Renew your permits annually and comply with local zoning, location, and event regulations.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Pass an annual Health Inspection conducted by the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD).
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department.
Display your Mobile Food Vendor Permit and health inspection certificates visibly on the truck.
Ensure your food truck complies with Fire Safety Requirements, including an inspection by the Tacoma Fire Department if using cooking equipment.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Tacoma
Food trucks in Tacoma must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD).
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit (Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department).
Health Permit (Washington State Department of Health - DOH).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Tacoma Fire Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (City of Tacoma, for operating in specific areas or events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit to the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD).
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
Pass an annual health inspection by the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD).
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection by the Tacoma Fire Department if your truck uses cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane.
Apply for a zoning permit from the City of Tacoma if required for operating in certain districts or during special events.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Zoning regulations apply, particularly near schools, parks, and high-traffic areas.
Special event permits may be required for operating at festivals, fairs, or public events.
Cost of Business Permit
$347
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Tacoma
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection by the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD). Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, cooking equipment, refrigeration, and sanitation.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) before applying for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Handwashing stations with soap, paper towels, and warm water.
Proper waste disposal systems to meet local health standards.
Proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Compliance with cleanliness standards for refrigeration and cooking equipment.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Tacoma
Food trucks in Tacoma are generally allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended operating hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Tacoma
Food trucks using cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Tacoma Fire Department.
A fire suppression system is required for food trucks using cooking equipment.
Fire safety certificates may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Tacoma
Food trucks must comply with zoning regulations, especially in residential areas, near schools, and in high-traffic areas.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in festivals, fairs, or public events, which may allow for extended hours or location flexibility.
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours unless approved by the city.
The information on this page is collected through collaboration with local food truck owners and occasional voluntary submissions from local government and health officials. Food Truck Profit is not a government agency and cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information. All food truck owners are strongly encouraged to consult directly with local government officials, including fire and health departments, to ensure compliance with all regulations. Food Truck Profit assumes no liability for errors or omissions in the content provided.